Vinyl Siding is exterior plastic siding designed for homes and small apartment dwellings, used primarily for weatherproofing and decoration, imitating natural wood clapboard or board siding, and utilized in place of other materials like fiber cement or aluminum siding. The vinyl siding process is more simple than you might think. Unlike wood, vinyl siding (no matter what its composition) does not need to be stained or painted to become weatherproof. The siding material is so versatile that it can withstand rain, sleet, snow, hail, and extreme temperatures all year long. There are no special treatments required for this exterior plastic covering; the only requirement is to protect it from the elements to ensure a long lifespan of your investment.
One of the primary dangers associated with vinyl siding may be the formation of mold, mildew, or chlorine gas within the structure of the home. All three of these are potential health hazards which pose serious risks to you and your family. Mold and mildew are often associated with poorly maintained exterior structures, such as those constructed primarily of wood. Though vinyl siding may not be susceptible to water damage, exposure to excess moisture or chemicals like bleach, which is commonly used to kill mold and mildew, can cause the vinyl siding to deteriorate and ultimately fall apart.
Though vinyl siding may not be susceptible to rotting or decay, it can still deteriorate over time. In such cases, it is a good practice to regularly maintain your vinyl siding; otherwise, the effects of weathering or deterioration may outweigh any positive benefits. Regular maintenance includes applying oil or grease to help prevent corrosion from occurring. Some people also prefer to use wood-colored paint or vinyl siding installation paints over vinyl siding installation paints, because wood-colored paint offers a more natural appearance.
Another common problem faced by those looking to install vinyl siding on their homes is peeling. Though vinyl can withstand extreme heat, it is typically placed near a structure that experiences high levels of sun or is exposed to high levels of rain or snow. As a result, vinyl begins to peel after several years. If it is left un-repaired, vinyl may even begin to crack. When this happens, the crack may continue to expand until it is larger than the original vinyl panel. Repairs made to the panel may not provide a long-lasting fix, and may even make the crack worse, resulting in an even larger repair.
Some people prefer to go with a low maintenance option, such as clay tile, rather than vinyl siding. While vinyl siding can help protect the structure of the home from water damage, clay tiles often require a heavy maintenance routine. This maintenance can involve painting, scraping, or staining. In addition, clay tile is more susceptible to weather damage from snow, wind, or rain.
The final factor considered when choosing exterior vinyl siding is impact resistance. Vinyl can withstand impacts to the outside of the house, but it is vulnerable to impact damage from rain, wind, hail, and flying objects. This can weaken the vinyl siding and make it more susceptible to cracking, chipping, or breaking. Aluminum siding, on the other hand, is not affected by impact resistance. Its outer layer is made up of aluminum oxide, which provides an extra layer of protection to the home against impact. If the installation includes an aluminum siding panel, it is important to check to ensure that it has enough strength to withstand wind and impact.